The personal tribute was for Patricia Josephine Jones, known as Pat, who requested a white cardboard coffin so friends, family and colleagues could leave messages.
A painting by Ulverston artist John Hall, featured on the coffin, depicted The Hoad overlooking the town and included a funicular railway, one of Pat’s hopes for the area.
“She loved being centre of attention, and I know she would have been delighted with the painting.
“It was such a personal touch, represented her love for Ulverston, and the involvement of our family and friends in leaving messages was exactly the kind of fun and heartfelt tribute she wanted.”
Co-op Funeralcare in Ulverston helped the family fulfil her wishes, providing felt-tip pens for mourners to write messages and memories on the coffin.
Kelly Lindley, funeral director at Co-op Funeralcare Ulverston, said: “It was such an honour to be part of such a unique and deeply personal farewell for Pat.
“Pat was a beloved Ulverston figure; she was clearly a woman who valued community, so the idea of having her loved ones contribute to her coffin in this way felt like a perfect tribute.
“We were pleased to support the family in bringing this vision to life.”
Pat’s final wish was for her funeral to be a true celebration of her life and the town she loved.
She served as a town councillor and mayor, and was a long-time advocate for Ulverston’s community and tourism.
